Minnesota's 8th congressional district covers the northeastern part of Minnesota. It is anchored by Duluth, Minnesota which is the fourth largest city in state. It also includes most of the Mesabi and Vermilion iron ranges. The district is best known for its mining, agriculture, tourism, and shipping industries.

Politically the district leans Democratic with a CPVI of D + 3.[4] However, the DFLers in this district, particularly outside the Duluth area, are not as liberal as their counterparts in the Twin Cities. Nonetheless, elected Republicans are few and far between. Republican strength is concentrated in the district's southern portion, which stretches into the outer northern portion of the Twin Cities.

The district is currently represented by DemocratRick Nolan, who defeated incumbent Republican Chip Cravaack in November 2012 and, most recently, Republican Stewart Mills in 2014.